PHOTOS: Historic Chapelfields bakery could be demolished for student flats

Plans have been submitted to Coventry City Council to build a three-storey block of student accommodation on the site of the old Pails Bakery, which has stood in Craven Street, Chapelfields, for more than a century.

An historic bakery could be flattened to make way for more student housing in Coventry.

Plans have been submitted to Coventry City Council to build a three-storey block of student accommodation on the site of the old Pails Bakery, which has stood in Craven Street, Chapelfields, for more than a century.

The proposal would see the demolition of the old building for a new block featuring 13 bedrooms with shared living rooms and kitchens on each floor.

There would also be eight secure cycle spaces, but no car parking.

The scheme has angered residents who argue it would lead to over-crowding in the area, increased pressure on parking and the loss of a historic building if it gets the go-ahead.

Carta – Chapelfields Area Residents and Traders – has submitted an objection to the city council which states: “While Carta welcomes students to the area we feel that the balance is starting to tip too far in one direction and long time residents are become increasingly disillusioned with the noise, rubbish, unkempt gardens and general lack of care for the area.

“Many families are moving out rather than stay which changes the unique make-up of the population within the area.”

The bakery closed its doors in July 2008 after 110 years serving bread and cakes.

A plan to turn the premises into two art studios, a gallery and a coffee shop was approved by the council last year but the development failed to go ahead.

Objecting to the latest plan on grounds of conservation, a resident of nearby Sir Thomas White’s Road said: “I object to the demolition of the old bakery because it is an important building within the Chapelfields Conservation Area and its removal would further erode the special nature of the historic watchmakers’ district, which is unique in the city, and for which many people came to live here. We should be conserving the buildings we have if at all possible.”

Architects SPG, on behalf of applicant Sarah Bergoine, said the design would be sympathetic to the character of the local area.

Their application said: “In design terms, the overall aim of the development is to create distinctiveness and quality. This has been achieved by drawing inspiration from the existing forms, scale, massing and styles of adjacent properties, and by selective use of appropriate materials, thoughtful details and modern form where appropriate.”